The Kansas City Real Estate Podcast

Joe Stephenson
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The Kansas City Real Estate Podcast is all about helping you learn everything you need to know about real estate in the Kansas City area. Hosted by KC expert and REALTOR®, Joe Stephenson, and his friend Bryan, this podcast will teach you how to buy and sell homes, invest in property, maintain a current home you own, and talk about living the life in Kansas.

  1. JUL 24

    ks exam brreta review

    Hey everyone, welcome back to the Kansas City Real Estate Podcast! I’m your host, Joe Stephenson, and in today’s episode, we’re diving into one of the most tested and most essential topics for your Kansas real estate exam, Brokerage Relationships under the BRRETA law (that’s the Brokerage Relationships in Real Estate Transactions Act). Here’s what you’re about to learn. What BRRETA is and why it matters the moment you start talking real estate with a client , especially when you’re required to hand over that “Real Estate Brokerage Relationships” brochure. The three types of brokerage roles in Kansas. Seller’s Agent – full fiduciary to the seller Buyer’s Agent – full fiduciary to the buyer Transaction Broker – assists both sides, but doesn’t represent either And here’s the Kansas twist: unless there’s a written agreement, you're legally defaulted to a transaction broker, which means you can’t offer advice or negotiation strategies. We’ll also walk through the exceptions to when that disclosure brochure is required, like in commercial deals, FSBOs, and simple property inquiries. You’ll get clear on what needs to be in writing and when, including buyer vs. seller agency rules, confidentiality clauses, and expiration dates. And finally, we’ll explain why Kansas doesn’t allow dual agency and how to handle it using the Transaction Broker Addendum (TBA) form. If you’re prepping for the Kansas exam or just want to avoid rookie compliance mistakes, this episode is a must-listen. So hit that subscribe button, grab your notes, and let’s get you real estate ready for the Kansas market one law at a time.

    4 min

  2. JUL 8

    kitchen rehab timeline

    A Kitchen Renovation Project Plan with Tips and Best Practices If you prefer to read along while you listen, or you want a quick refresher after the show, this breakdown distills every teaching point from Joe Stephenson’s latest episode on the Kansas City Real Estate Podcast. I like chatting with a kitchen designer about the renovation process. You’ll learn exactly how Joe structures a successful kitchen remodel, hardware installation, space planning, setting a realistic budget, kitchen installation, and locking in the kitchen remodel timeline, so you can save money, avoid costly mistakes, and deliver a new kitchen that renters and buyers can’t resist. Episode at a Glance Hard-cap budgeting & contingency (track every dollar with our Real Estate Agent Expenses Spreadsheet) Non-negotiable scope items & kitchen layout decisions (lock them in with a Scope-of-Work Template) Six-bucket cost breakdown (code each cost correctly using this Rental Property Chart of Accounts) Day-by-day milestone schedule Risk control, quality checks & regular check-ins (create punch lists with a Rental Property Inspection Checklist) Take-away checklist you can paste into your own Kitchen Renovation Project Plan The episode also unpacks the planning process with milestones, sourcing durable hardwood, and sticking to “one thing at a time” straight from seasoned professionals, so you can deliver a kitchen remodel people remember. 1. Begin with a Hard Cap on Dollars & Days Joe starts every remodeling project by capping: Budget: $30 k (plus a built-in 10 % contingency) Duration: the exact schedule approved with the general contractor Pro tip: Tie the GC’s final draw to both the dollar cap and completion date. Use a clear Invoice Template so everyone sees the trigger points in writing. 2. Lock the Scope Before Demo Day Joe’s non-negotiables for this kitchen renovation include custom cabinetry, granite countertops, and a center island. A posted spec list kills “while-we’re-at-it” add-ons and keeps bids apples-to-apples. Kick off with a scope summit, walk each trade through the plan line-by-line, then pin the renderings to the permit set. For multifamily investors, pair this with a Due-Diligence Checklist to confirm every unit needs the same upgrades. 3. Break the Budget into Six Bite-Sized Buckets Construction eats ~80 % of the pie, so value-engineer there first. Run a ten-minute Friday cost huddle comparing actuals to budget. If demolition or appliances are burning hot, adjust in Week 2, not Week 8. 4. Kitchen Remodel Timeline. Six Critical Milestones. Design approval, demo wrap, installs, clean-up, system tests, and final hand-over. Tie progress draws and bonuses to each milestone, then maintain a three-day look-ahead so no trade is waiting on another. Want a flawless final reveal? Swipe the Property-Management Cleaning Checklist and schedule it right after “Site Cleaned” on your Gantt. 5. Risk Control & Quality Assurance Track design tweaks, budget creep, and hidden mechanical surprises in a live risk log, with owners and due dates. Daily emails plus a shared photo log keep everyone honest. 6. Take-Away Checklist ☐ Printed scope on-site ☐ Six-bucket budget tracked weekly ☐ Milestone dates with alerts ☐ Active risk log ☐ Daily status touchpoints & photo log ☐ Temporary kitchen setup (microwave + mini-fridge) When the remodel’s done, package the deal with an Offering Memorandum Template, prep your marketing using the Listing Checklist, and glide to the finish line with a Closing Checklist. Listen & Build Your Own Kitchen Remodel Project Hit play on the full episode to hear Joe’s stories, numbers and hard-won lessons in his own voice. Keep this step-by-step guide open while you listen, and you’ll finish with a bulletproof kitchen remodel project blueprint, ready to create, manage and deliver a space that matches your lifestyle vision and your investment goals.

    8 min

  3. JUL 1

    BRRRR Method

    Please note. You'll notice the Joe and I do not sound anything like us. Well, we had a little mishap. The audio we recorded got completely messed up, but I still had a transcript. So I took that transcript and used AI voice to create what we talked about. I gave myself a British accent, lol.  We covered how some investors build impressive rental property portfolios with less cash out of pocket. In today’s episode, we’re breaking down the BRRRR method, the process of calculating the numbers, a strategy that’s helped thousands of people accelerate their wealth and grow passive income, even in a market that seems unpredictable. So what exactly is the BRRRR method? BRRRR stands for Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, and Repeat. It’s a step-by-step process that allows investors to purchase undervalued properties, add value through smart renovations, rent them out to reliable tenants, refinance to pull their cash back out, and then do it all over again. Done right, the BRRRR method can turn a single down payment into a snowball of properties, making it possible to scale your real estate business much faster than traditional buy-and-hold investing. But as with any investment strategy, there’s more to the story than catchy acronyms. We’ll share not just how the BRRRR method works, but the common mistakes to avoid, the numbers you need to watch, and the mindset that separates successful investors from the rest. Whether you’re brand new to real estate or you already have a couple of rentals, this episode will give you a practical, real-world guide to using BRRRR in today’s market. We’ll talk through market shifts, financing tips, how to find deals, and why the BRRRR method is about math, having a plan, and building a lifestyle. Stick around for actionable advice, a few laughs, and the inside scoop on how you can start or grow your own BRRRR journey.

    6 min

  4. MAR 21

    Home Insurance Tips

    On a recent episode of the Kansas City Real Estate Podcast, Joe and I had the pleasure of chatting with Paul Santos, an insurance expert, to help us better learn about the world of home insurance. We learn things like how the age of your roof and the elements it's exposed to are key factors that can lower or increase your home insurance premiums. We also made many many references to one of our favorite shows, The Simpsons. You'll learn some great tips, let me know what we missed. This episode's free downloadable resource is our FREE Commercial Real Estate Due Diligence Checklist template. It's an Excel resource that will seriously up your game. Download it now at and make those deals shine.     How Your Roof Affects Your Home Insurance Believe it or not, how your roof affects your home insurance more than you might think. Paul highlighted this at [6:14], noting that insurance companies really look at the likelihood of something terrible happening to your home. Newer roofs can seriously impact your home insurance premium, generally leading to better rates because they're less likely to fall apart [6:21]. An old roof can be a major red flag, potentially leading insurance companies to hesitate to insure a home, which can significantly increase your premiums [6:40]. Having two layers of shingles can make it really hard (and expensive!) to insure, as it's difficult to assess potential damage underneath [8:06]. Replacing your roof with quality materials can save you headaches down the road.   Learn about Mortgage Requirements for Home Insurance Paul clarified a few key points about mortgage requirements for home insurance. If you have a mortgage, your lender will require you to have homeowners insurance [3:22]. This is because the bank has a vested interest in making sure the property is protected. They won't close the loan if you don't have insurance [3:35].   What Underwriting Looks For When it comes to underwriting, there are certain things insurance companies look for. Underwriters are looking to make sure your walls don’t have holes or your roof doesn’t have a leak [6:03]. These are prime examples of issues that can lead to further damage and costly claims. To prepare your home for inspection, keep it in good repair to avoid these red flags, as regular maintenance is key.   The Impact of Inquiries on Your Home Insurance Premium Rates This one really surprised me. Even just calling to ask how much your insurance would go up if something happened (like a broken bay window) could potentially increase your rates [13:17]. While we didn't dive into specific examples, the takeaway is clear be careful what you ask! Make sure you understand your policy details before calling your insurance agent with random questions.     Liability Coverage. Protecting Yourself. Paul explained a key component of homeowners insurance, which is hedging your liability if someone gets hurt on your property [15:58]. This covers you if someone slips and falls, or otherwise injures themselves on your property. You can also get umbrella insurance for additional coverage beyond the standard policy limits [16:16].   Insurance: It's a Shared Risk Insurance is essentially a shared risk, as Paul explained. Everyone contributes [12:25]. Those who experience a covered loss can draw from it. It's more expensive not to have insurance when something catastrophic happens, as you either break even or you're at a loss without it [11:51].   Owning a Home Outright. Do You Still Need Insurance? Even if you own your home free and clear, he recommends having insurance. If the worst happens (fire, tornado, etc.), you're at a total loss without it [19:12]. Plus, you still need liability coverage in case someone gets injured on your property [19:00].   Reading and Understanding Your Policy This might sound obvious, but Paul emphasized the importance of actually reading your home insurance policy [57:05]. You need to know what you're actually covered for! The last thing you want is to discover you're not covered when you thought you were.   Special Coverages: Earthquake and Flood Insurance Paul pointed out that standard policies usually don't include earthquake or flood insurance [58:09]. If you live in an area prone to these events, you'll need to get separate policies. Know your area and what normally happens.   The Cause of Damage Paul was very clear that insurance is based off of what caused the damage [59:41]. If the damage was caused by something else then the thing you thought it was and that thing is not covered then you're not covered. This is why understanding policy exclusions is so important. What's blocked from coverage? What happens if you neglect your home, and it causes further damage? Home insurance can seem daunting, but understanding the basics can help you make informed decisions to protect your home and your wallet. A huge thanks to Paul for shedding light on this important topic! Do you have any mind blowing insurance stories? Feel free to email me and I'll add it to this blog.   More From the Episode We also discussed the things you should keep in mind when buying a policy with our friend Paul. We talk about the importance of budgeting for a kitchen remodeling project.  You'll also get a brief overview of the Kansas City real estate market and some of the recent trends we're seeing.  Insurance is an essential part of life, and it's important to make sure you have the right policy for your needs. There are a variety of factors you should consider when purchasing insurance, such as the type of coverage you need, the amount of coverage you need, and the company you're buying from. You should also make sure to read the fine print and understand all of the terms and conditions of your policy. We also played with software that helps Joe write radio ads and video ads.  The Kansas City real estate market is still seems to be a seller's market right now. Joe talks about Kansas City. We also briefly take a look at Lawrence Kansas.     Links https://ksrealtyagent.com/cities/lenexa/

    1h 1m

  5. MAR 3

    Home negotiation tips

    In this episode of the Kansas City real estate podcast, Joe the REALTOR® gives us insights about home negotiations from both the buying and selling side. We also talk about what are the most common obstacles to overcome when navigating a home transaction. Bryan draws from his home buying experience in Lawrence Kansas.  We then talk about some of our favorite smart home features. We love our smart home features!  From being able to control the temperature from our phones to turning on the lights with a voice command, there are endless possibilities when it comes to making your home smarter.  Joe's Expert House Negotiation I had the chance to sit down with Joe Stephenson, a seasoned REALTOR® in Kansas City, and hear his wisdom on how to handle these tense conversations. He’s a master at balancing strategy, fairness, and the human element of real estate deals. Here are some of Joe’s best house negotiation tips to add to your house buying checklist. It'll help make the process a bit clearer. He makes me laugh a lot in this episode too. 1). Pay Attention to the Market Mood Joe says you’ve got to read the room when making an offer. In areas where inventory is tight, it’s all about moving fast and standing out. You’re not so much engaging in a back-and-forth battle over price as you are crafting a strong, appealing first offer. For buyers, this could mean skipping the idea of lowballing entirely. Instead, think about adding a little extra to your offer or giving the seller something they want, like a flexible move-out date or fewer contingencies. Sellers, on the other hand, should recognize when their home might need a price adjustment to attract buyers if it’s not getting bites quickly. Joe shared a winning example where his clients bid $10,000 over asking price with a condition to limit showings after a day or two. That little move snagged the house for them. He explained the key was being aggressive enough to catch the seller’s attention without turning them off by sounding demanding.   “You would have really angered the seller if you'd said shut down showings right now. They just would have gotten defiant,” Joe told me during the podcast. A little tact goes a long way. (Timestamp 15:22)   2). Know What You Can Live With Joe has this golden negotiation rule that stuck with me. He says you should make an offer where you can sleep at night, win or lose. If you don’t get the house, you should feel at peace knowing there wasn’t a dollar more you were willing to offer. If you do, you don’t want to lay awake stressing over a mortgage that feels impossible to manage. This advice feels so practical because emotional decisions can cloud your judgment during these moments. Joe encourages his clients to look at the bigger picture. What’s your long-term comfort zone? What’s a deal-breaker? Keep those factors in the mix as you weigh your options.   “Make it an offer where you can sleep at night if you don't get the house, and you can sleep at night if you do,” he said, and it honestly made so much sense to me. (Timestamp 18:19)   3). Build Respect on Both Sides Joe believes in keeping things professional but personal. He says a little goodwill can make negotiations smoother. Small concessions from sellers, like leaving a refrigerator, washing machine, or dryer, can make buyers feel like they’ve won something—even if it wasn’t a major ask. It’s that human touch that can prevent a deal from souring. Joe shared a funny story about a buyer who wanted the seller to leave their TV behind. The seller politely declined because they loved that TV so much. While the TV stayed put, the buyer still walked away with the washer and dryer, which turned out to be a nice bonus. And when things get tricky? A REALTOR like Joe helps mediate. He says, “You don’t want emotions to get in the way. That’s where I come in to help buffer any frustration between the buyer and seller.” For someone like me, who hates conflict, this sounds like a lifesaver.   “It doesn’t do a seller any good to take something people are expecting to stay… Just be upfront,” Joe explained when talking about sticky situations over unexpected removals, like basketball hoops and drapes. (Timestamp 8:52)       4). Multiple Offers Mean Strategy Joe also shared his thoughts on what to do in a bidding war. If there’s more than one offer on the table, you’ve got to make yours shine. Price isn’t the only factor sellers consider. Think about offering sweeteners, like covering closing costs or closing dates that align with their schedule. He told me about a family who asked to delay closing because their child was graduating high school. Joe’s clients took it in stride and accommodated the request. That small gesture helped seal the deal, and both parties left happy.   “They got 10 grand more than they thought, and my buyers ended up in a house that was a better fit for them,” Joe said about one such win-win situation. (Timestamp 17:29)   Check Back for Updates About Negotiation Joe’s style stands out because he’s not about playing games. He’s realistic, fair, and focused on helping people find common ground. Negotiations don’t have to be battles. Instead, they’re chances to problem-solve and work toward a solution both sides can feel good about. If I could sum up Joe’s house negotiation tips in a single thought, it would be this: approach each step with clarity, empathy, and purpose. It’s about finding that balance where everyone walks away feeling like they got what they needed. Take Joe’s advice and go into negotiations ready to respect the process, make thoughtful moves, and keep your ultimate goals in mind. Here’s hoping your next deal is a win on all fronts.

    42 min

  6. MAR 1

    Tips to increase value

    We'll give you our thoughts on each of these topics and let you know what we think is the best option for you. Today's real estate podcast episode is dedicated to practical home improvement ideas that can make a real difference. Forget cookie-cutter advice; we’re talking creative approaches and solid strategies mixed with a good dose of humor. For your real estate professionals, we loving talking about our free tools. Today's downloadable resource is our free real estate listing checklist, available in excel and pdf format. enjoy! Here is a break down of our home improvement discussion and adding value to your house portion of our episode. Johnson County Kansas Home Prices Over 10 Years   Landscaping Here is an example of a well-built, great looking fence I found from the Spring Fence Company.  A wooden fence can significantly enhance the value of a home by boosting curb appeal, providing privacy, and improving security, features that are highly attractive to potential buyers. The key to maximizing this value lies in ensuring the fence is visually appealing, professionally installed, and well-maintained.     According to Progressive, a poorly constructed or neglected fence can have the opposite effect, detracting from the property’s overall appeal. Professional installation ensures the fence is not only structurally sound but also complements the home’s aesthetic and aligns with neighborhood standards. A well-built wooden fence can add value by enhancing the visual appeal and functionality of a property, but its condition and quality are critical factors in determining its impact on home value.  Turning Space into Gold One of my favorite, most best ways to give you a good chance to add value is to add living space. It’s like real estate’s golden rule. Bigger and more functional spaces attract buyers and increase rent potential for investors. Rethink Your Garage Ever thought about your garage? Converting part of a four-car garage into livable space is a clever idea. It could become a home office, a studio, or even a stylish lounge area for sipping coffee while pretending to work. Make It Count as Living Space The key to adding value is ensuring the space counts as official living square footage. Add HVAC, windows, and the right flooring to make it functional and appealing. A Smart Move for Investors For investors, this approach avoids heavy demolition and time-consuming permits compared to external expansions. It’s a practical way to add value without the headaches. Your Space, Your Rules And if you’re just looking for a personal retreat? Use the space for a podcast studio, a binge-watching haven, or even a jet ski storage spot. It’s your call! Kitchens Are Always King Every home improvement wishlist should include the kitchen. Why? Because it’s the heart of the home. Buyers and renters obsess over sleek countertops, updated appliances, and cabinets that don’t look like they’ve wandered out of a time capsule. Kitchen Upgrades Offer Big Returns Joe reminded us during the podcast that kitchen upgrades often come close to giving you a dollar-for-dollar return on investment. That means, if you’re putting money anywhere, the kitchen is where you’ll probably get it back. Think about refreshing cabinets, upgrading to quartz or granite for counters, or replacing those old appliances with shiny, energy-efficient models that say, “Yes, this house is worth every penny.” Small Changes, Big Impact Even small touches can go a long way. Switching out dated hardware or adding a fancy backsplash can modernize the space without blowing your budget. And for investors? It’s the upgrade that keeps tenants happy, which means fewer turnovers. Master Bathrooms Need Some TLC Here’s a simple truth—people like their bathrooms to be private and functional. Joe made a great point about adding a private stool room to a master bath. It’s the kind of upgrade that folks don’t necessarily notice when it’s there, but they definitely notice when it’s not. Nobody wants to feel on display during their, uh, personal time. Upgrade the Bathrooms Master bathrooms are another spot where your efforts can really count. Modernize the shower, add some dual vanities, or throw in heated floors for that luxury touch. For long-term investors, upgrades like these mean higher rent potentials and happier tenants. And for homeowners? Well, you get to soak in that spa-like shower at the end of a long day—win-win. Don’t Forget Practical Upgrades And now, a tip that might not be glamorous but definitely pays off. HVAC systems. Windows. Roofs. Sure, they’re not as exciting as a marble island in your kitchen, but buyers and renters look at these upgrades like gold. A new heating and air system screams “efficiency.” Same with new windows—lower utilities and a fresh look go a long way. Got an older roof? Updating it is another way to make your home stand out when it’s time to sell or rent. People Love Move-In Ready Houses Here’s what to remember about these upgrades—they make your house move-in ready. Buyers and renters want low-maintenance, no-hassle living, and these kinds of updates deliver exactly that. Plus, if you’re an investor, it sets you apart in competitive markets because tenants love a property that’s cared for. Where Are You Spending That $10K? Now, we all laughed about Bryan’s dream of upgrading his garage, but the honest truth is, where you spend your money should be driven by what your home needs most—and what will make a noticeable impact. If you’ve got an unfinished basement, for example, consider whether transforming that into a sleek rec room or home theater might raise the overall appeal. On the other hand, if your curb appeal is lacking, think about sprucing things up with landscaping, a modern front door, or better lighting. And yes, before we forget, don’t rule out buying something ridiculous like a jet ski to make your house the most desirable one in town—it’s technically staging, right? Final Thoughts on Value and Vision Every house has potential, but the real trick is knowing where to put your dollars to see results. It could be as practical as a new HVAC system or as fun as turning unutilized space into a stunning home office or media room. For real estate investors, think long-term—and always think about what’s going to make the next buyer or tenant fall in love with the space. Are kitchens where your heart lies? Or would you rather make your master bath the highlight of your home? No matter the route you take, it’s worth planning carefully. And remember Joe’s sage advice—get a sewer inspection! After all, nothing ruins a gorgeous remodel like an unexpected surprise underground. Subscribe to Our Real Estate Podcast We home you enjoyed our discussion about niche real estate agents, home upgrade ideas, and being a real estate agent in Leawood vs being a real estate agent in  Prairie Village KS. Consider subscribing.

    33 min

  7. FEB 22

    How to be a top agent

    This Episode's Free Online Resource for Rental Property Owners Free Rental Property Expenses Worksheet (xls Spreadsheet) Enjoy! What Makes a Great Real Estate Agent? I asked Joe what makes a top real estate. He thought it was an interesting question, and here is where he landed. Add your ideas in the comments section. Being a top real estate agent takes more than just knowing the market or signing on the dotted line. It’s a dynamic, client-driven job that requires a combination of specific skills, a polished approach, and a willingness to adapt. And knowing how to host a great open house.  You need listening ears and flexible schedules. Here’s what goes into making a truly excellent real estate professional, as discussed in the first episode of our podcast. Joe shares his perspective on what it takes to Prairie Village, Kansas. He goes into detail about the process and timelines for selling one's home as well other topics related including communication with him or other agents involved during this time period.   A Funny Video Joe and I Made "10 Essential Skills for Real Estate Agents"   Listening is Where It All Starts A great real estate agent knows that their client isn’t just a person—they’re the boss. If it’s helping a seller put their home on the market or guiding a buyer to their dream house, then listening is key. It’s about understanding what the client needs, their goals, and even their quirks. For buyers, this means asking the right questions during consultations How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need? What's your budget? What's something unique or specific you’re looking for in a home? The best agents pay attention to all these details. And they ask one more question Joe swears by when working with clients: “What haven’t we talked about yet?” (write that one down). For sellers, listening means understanding your timeline and the unique details of the home. Only by truly understanding the client’s needs can an agent successfully help them achieve their goals.   Flexibility Is a Must A real estate agent’s clock has no fixed hours. Buyers and sellers often need assistance outside the traditional 9-to-5 window, particularly on evenings and weekends. A top agent embraces this unpredictability, ensuring they’re available when their clients need them most. For Joe, this wide-open schedule comes with territory that sprawls. Covering the greater Kansas City metro area, or even crisscrossing from Kansas to Missouri, means adapting to wherever a client’s needs may take him.   Communication is Everything Another hallmark of an exceptional real estate agent is effective communication. And that means staying on top of every detail. Clients don’t live in the real estate world, so they rely on their agent to explain what’s happening at every stage, from listing the house to inspections, and finally, closing the deal. Joe highlighted the importance of walking clients through the process to eliminate any confusion or surprises. Clear communication also extends to the other parties involved, like lenders, inspectors, and title companies. Keeping open lines of communication ensures everything flows smoothly.   Building Rapport Quickly Buying or selling a home is a big deal, so clients naturally want to work with someone they feel comfortable around. Top real estate agents know how to establish trust and rapport with their clients. It’s not just about transaction details, it’s making sure clients feel heard, respected, and at ease during what can be an overwhelming process. Joe noted that this skill isn’t automatic, you develop it over time, with experience. Being genuine, personable, and approachable goes a long way in forging strong, professional relationships.   The Power of Knowledge and Experience A great agent doesn’t just know the local market; they know how to make it work for their clients. This includes: Know and understand neighborhood trends. Pricing homes appropriately for their value. Staging techniques to make homes shine online and in person. Attention to practical checklists, like ensuring homes are photographed by professionals. Joe also pointed out how being familiar with processes (like navigating the MLS or understanding comparable sales) helps agents confidently guide their clients. But even someone with experience continually learns and evolves. For example, housing markets shift, and what worked five years ago won’t always apply today.   Passion is the Secret Sauce If there’s one thing that sets a top-tier real estate agent apart, it’s their love for what they do. Passion shows in the effort they bring to the table. If it’s walking alongside clients on their first home-buying adventure or helping sellers maximize the value of their property, then a great agent genuinely enjoys each step of the process. Joe embodies this passion, thriving on the variety and excitement that comes with working across Kansas City’s sprawling metro area. For him, real estate is never boring. Wrapping It All Up What makes a great real estate agent? Listening skills. Flexibility. Communication. Rapport-building. Knowledge. And above all, passion. When an agent commits to these values, their work speaks for itself—and their clients walk away happy. Are you in the Kansas City area and looking to buy or sell a home? Joe Stephenson is here to help you with professionalism, expertise, and good humor. Reach out and take the first step toward your next big move. Summary Joe provides insight into popular housing choices by area residents which may interests you if considering moving there soon! We go into what it's like in that part of the area and what kind of houses one can expect to find there. Joe also goes into what's popular as a home buyer in that area.  We then talk about what it takes to be one of the Overland Park KS. There are many factors that go into becoming among the best that include: Listening Flexibility Market Knowledge Communication Joe talks about how each of these factors play a role in his professional career.  We finally have some time to talk about laptops and why we use the ones we use. We talk about touch screens, Macs, PCs, and break down what we look for in a good laptop to help us do our work.  It's the first episode of the Kansas City Real Estate Podcast! We hope you enjoy.  KS Realty Agents Website

    34 min

  8. FEB 15

    Joe's Love for Lenexa

    This Episode's Free Real Estate Agent Resource Free Real Estate Agent Tax Deductions Worksheet (excel, PDF)   Lenexa Kansas is a great place to be a real estate agent. In this podcast, Joe the REALTOR® talks about some of the great things about being a real estate agent here and why it's such a great place to live and work. We will also learn about the luxury real estate in KC. Joe provides an overview of the market and some of the most luxurious properties in town. If you're looking to buy or sell a high-end property, this is a great resource. We also attempt to answer the question "How do I know it’s the right time to sell my home?"   Joe's Advice on Staging a House   Joe Stevenson knows Lenexa, Kansas inside and out. This isn’t just because he’s one of the top real estate agents in the Kansas City metro area, but also because he once called Lenexa home. His personal experiences, combined with his professional insights as a dedicated real estate agent, paint a vivid picture of why Lenexa real estate agents love connecting buyers and sellers to this thriving community. Want to know what makes Lenexa KS an exceptional place to live? Joe has a lot to say, and his perspective on family-friendly neighborhoods, quick commutes, and unbeatable amenities is packed with helpful advice, humor, and deep knowledge of the Lenexa real estate market. Joe’s Time Living in Lenexa Joe didn’t just work with property owners in Lenexa—he lived there. His former residence on Cedar St provided him the same benefits he highlights to his clients as a top real estate agent. With Shaie Mission Park less than a mile away, easy access to major highways like 435 and I-35, and a safe, welcoming neighborhood, Joe embraced everything Lenexa had to offer. "I lived close to some fantastic places," Joe reminisced. "Shawnee Mission Park, Black Hoof Park, and the Lenexa City Center were all nearby. My neighborhood had this cozy yet modern feel, and I didn’t need to go far for good food or quick services." Joe admits that he loved the combination of convenience and charm Lenexa provided. As someone who has helped sell houses quickly in Lenexa and guided first-time home buyers, he knows that Lenexa KS checks all the boxes for families and professionals alike.     Parks, Nature, and Recreation Outdoor enthusiasts and families take note—Lenexa does an amazing job maintaining its parks and recreational spaces. Black Hoof Park, home to Lake Lenexa, offers trails, picnic shelters, and that perfect "Sunday funday" vibe. For those with water-loving hobbies, this spot is great for canoeing or simple lakeside relaxation. "There’s something calming about hopping into a canoe at Lake Lenexa," Joe says. "Even when the workweek gets hectic, Lenexa’s parks remind you to slow down." And for those who crave a larger park experience, Shaie Mission Park is right next door. With a lake, trails, and an off-leash dog area, it feels like a mini vacation just around the corner. Buyers consistently ask about properties near these parks, making them a big draw for both sellers and buyers alike.   Proximity to Everything The Lenexa housing market attracts buyers who value accessibility. The city’s location within Johnson County means residents can commute to Overland Park, Kansas City, or even Lee’s Summit without a hitch. Kansas City real estate agents like Joe often tell buyers looking for convenience to consider Lenexa’s strategic spot in the metro. "Traffic stress isn’t something Lenexa homeowners deal with much," Joe explains. "The City Center area pulls in professionals and families for dining, shopping, and entertainment, but you’re never too far from major venues like downtown Kansas City or the Legends." Buy a house in Lenexa, and you won’t struggle to connect your new home to your favorite destinations.     Entertainment and Amenities Lenexa’s City Center is at the heart of its growth in entertainment options. Residents can enjoy local restaurants, family-friendly recreational facilities, and even quirky spots for games like shuffleboard. You won’t need to go far for a great burger or a quick trivia night. Joe believes this focus on making suburbs engaging is one of Lenexa’s best qualities. "The BBQ competition events, parks, and entertainment aren’t just for kids or families—they’re for everyone. You don’t have to feel like the city dies down after 7 pm," he jokes.   Tips for Buying or Selling in Lenexa Real estate agents in Lenexa KS love emphasizing the variety of properties available. From luxury homes to as-is properties perfect for cash buyers, Lenexa offers something for everyone. Joe advises buyers to work with agents who know the area thoroughly for the best chance at success. "If you’re a first-time homebuyer or considering selling your house fast in Lenexa, you need an agent who can handle the real estate market confidently," Joe says. Experience counts during negotiations, and top seller’s agents will know how to handle every stage of the transaction, from setting fair prices to coordinating open houses. For anyone relocating, finding the perfect real estate agent in Lenexa ensures a smooth and stress-free process. With Keller Williams Realty Partners and other experienced brokers in the area, professional help isn’t hard to come by.   Blog Post How to Sell Your House in Lenexa Kansas     Lenexa Delivers on Every Level Ask any top real estate agent about Lenexa, and they’ll tell you it strikes the right balance between modern amenities and neighborhood charm. Families love the parks and school districts, professionals benefit from quick commutes, and first-time home buyers enjoy the competitive market. Joe says it best. "Every property sale I’ve worked in Lenexa has been enjoyable—there’s something special about buyers realizing they’ve found the right house there. I don’t just sell real estate; I introduce clients to a community they’ll love." For anyone unsure if Lenexa fits their needs, consider the recommendations of experts like Joe Stevenson. Reach out to top agents in Lenexa KS, explore properties online, or visit one of the city’s open houses. It’s a perfect beginning to your next chapter in a city that truly has it all. Take the first step, contact a Lenexa real estate agent today and discover why so many professionals, families, and first-time buyers are thrilled to call Lenexa home.   Check Back for Updates Joe Stevenson knows Lenexa, Kansas inside and out. This isn’t just because he’s one of the top real estate agents in the Kansas City metro area, but also because he once called Lenexa home. His personal experiences, combined with his professional insights as a real estate agent, make him the go-to person for anyone looking to buy houses or sell their house fast in Lenexa. Maybe you’re a first-time buyer, seasoned investor, or even looking for cash buyers who can make a fair cash offer, and Joe has the expertise to guide you through the real estate market. Selling a house fast can feel a rough experience, but Joe assures homeowners that the process doesn’t have to be stressful. Things like managing closing dates to helping sellers find cash home buyers willing to pay cash for a house as is, he simplifies every step. With his focus on reducing closing costs and securing a fair price, Joe ensures a seamless experience for those wanting to sell their house quickly. For buyers, even if it’s finding a cash offer or negotiating in the competitive market, Joe connects people to the homes and communities they’ll love. Want to know what makes Lenexa KS an exceptional place to live? Joe has a lot to say, and his perspective on family-friendly neighborhoods, quick commutes, and unbeatable amenities is packed with helpful advice, humor, and deep knowledge of the Lenexa real estate market.

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About

The Kansas City Real Estate Podcast is all about helping you learn everything you need to know about real estate in the Kansas City area. Hosted by KC expert and REALTOR®, Joe Stephenson, and his friend Bryan, this podcast will teach you how to buy and sell homes, invest in property, maintain a current home you own, and talk about living the life in Kansas.

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